4 Mileage Milestones for Your Car

Keeping up with regular maintenance is the key to unleashing your vehicle’s full potential and extending its lifespan for as long as possible. As the number on your odometer continues to climb, keep an eye on these milestones that warrant a trip to Rob’s auto repair and service shop in Bristol, PA, for high-quality repairs and honest pricing. 

Before we get started, keep in mind that this blog is meant to serve as a guideline for important maintenance services. However, you should always consult your owner’s manual for the mileage milestones that are specific to your vehicle’s make and model. Each vehicle is manufactured with different parts and equipment, so these numbers can vary.

3,000 – 10,000 Miles

The make, model, and age of your vehicle play a big factor in determining your first mileage milestone. Older vehicles that run on regular oil will need to be serviced as early as 3,000 miles, while those that use a synthetic oil blend will need to be serviced at 5,000 miles. 

Most newer vehicles, on the other hand, can drive 7,500 or 10,000 miles between oil changes. Upgrades in engine manufacturing require modern cars to use synthetic or pure synthetic oil, which is known to last longer and perform better. 

Again, these mileage milestones are not set in stone. Your driving habits have a great impact on how often you will need to change your oil. For example, if you are constantly driving in stop-and-go traffic, you will probably need to visit an automotive shop more often. 

During your first service, you should: 

  • Change your oil
  • Rotate your tires
  • Check the tire pressure
  • Top off any low fluids

15,000 – 40,000 Miles

Your second mileage milestone focuses on filters: the air filter, the cabin air filter, and the fuel filter. 

Many car owners don’t realize the important role that air filters play in the well-being of their vehicles, but they are the key to keeping harmful debris from damaging the engine. Experts recommend changing the air filter around the 15,000 mile-mark to prolong the engine’s lifespan, increase fuel efficiency, and reduce emissions. If you live in a polluted or dusty area, expect to replace this part more often. 

Whereas air filters are designed for your vehicle’s performance, cabin air filters are designed for the driver’s and passengers’ health and safety. Cabin air filters trap and eliminate dust, pollen, bacteria, exhaust gas, and other pollutants from reaching the vehicle’s interior. In short, they provide clean air for everyone in the vehicle. That is until they reach 15,000 to 30,000 miles, after which they become ineffective and need to be replaced promptly. 

The fuel filter should be replaced between 20,000 to 40,000 miles. Much like air filters, fuel filters are designed to trap particles and impurities found in the fuel. This will maximize fuel efficiency, boost engine power, and reduce emissions.  

Additionally, most manufacturer warranties expire at or around 36,000, which can reduce the resale value of the vehicle. 

50,000 – 60,000 Miles

By the time your vehicle reaches this mileage milestone, some of its most important parts will most likely be worn out and ready for replacement. Check out the following infographic to learn more. 

75,000 – 90,000 Miles

The last mileage milestone covers a few simple but nonetheless important services. 

First, it’s important to flush and replace your power steering fluid. Although the power steering fluid is sealed, meaning it doesn’t get used up, it can still get dirty from years and years of sitting in a container. It only needs to be replaced once or twice in the vehicle’s lifetime, and it provides a lot of benefits. 

Also, check and replace any burned spark plugs during this time. In most modern cars, spark plugs made of iridium or platinum can last up to 90,000 miles — sometimes even more! New spark plugs will help your engine perform at peak efficiency and purr like a kitten. 

When your vehicle hits its next milestone, don’t forget to stop by Rob’s Auto in Bristol for a quick tune-up! Our car and truck repair service experts are certified by 14 different manufacturers, so you can be sure your baby is in the best possible hands. 

Contact us today to set an appointment!

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